In commemoration of the Vietnam War 50th Anniversary, a social will be held at 7 p.m. on November 17 at the Vinton War Memorial to honor Vietnam Veterans.

All veterans who served in any branch of the U.S. military between November 1, 1955 and April 30, 1975, no matter where they were stationed will be honored at this event.

This gala evening will include light hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and live music. Admission will be free, but tickets will be required for entrance. Vietnam veterans will be eligible for two tickets, one for themselves and one for a guest. Tickets are available at the following locations:

*The City of Salem Department of Parks & Recreation, 620 Florida St., Salem, 540-375-3057.

*The Vinton War Memorial, 814 E. Washington Ave., Vinton, 540-983-0645.

*Roanoke County Parks and Recreation’s Brambleton Center, 3738 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke, 540-772-7529.

If special arrangements are needed, call Wendi Schultz at 540.777.6326.

In 2015, representatives from the Cities of Roanoke and Salem, Roanoke County, Town of Vinton and the Association of the United States Army (Stonewall Jackson Chapter) formed a committee to plan events to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.

The committee has been tasked with holding at least two events a year from 2015 through 2017. Saluting those who served is the final event of this commemoration. For more information, contact 540-777-6326.

-Submitted by Wendi Schultz